Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
Hypertension is rated under 38 CFR § 4.104, Diagnostic Code 7101. The VA rates it based on your diastolic (bottom number) blood pressure readings, or your systolic (top number) if it is predominantly 200 or more. Readings must be taken over multiple visits to establish a "predominant" level.
VA Rating Levels
Diastolic pressure predominantly 100 or more, OR a history of diastolic pressure predominantly 100 or more that now requires continuous medication for control. This is the minimum compensable rating and is the most common level granted.
Diastolic pressure predominantly 110 or more, OR systolic pressure predominantly 200 or more. Your blood pressure is significantly elevated even with or without medication.
Diastolic pressure predominantly 120 or more. Severely elevated diastolic readings documented across multiple visits.
Diastolic pressure predominantly 130 or more. This is the maximum schedular rating for hypertension alone.
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →"Predominantly" means your BP readings are at that level MORE OFTEN THAN NOT — the VA looks at a pattern, not just one reading
- →Bring a log of your blood pressure readings from multiple days/visits to your C&P exam
- →Hypertension is very commonly service-connected secondary to PTSD — chronic stress elevates BP
- →Also claimed secondary to: sleep apnea, kidney conditions, obesity, or medications for other service-connected conditions
- →Hypertension itself can be a primary condition for veterans with Agent Orange exposure or certain other presumptive categories
- →Common secondary conditions off of hypertension: heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, erectile dysfunction
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR § 4.104, Diagnostic Code 7101